How can soldering processes be planned, designed and implemented sustainably and ecologically?

Sustainable, ecological soldering processes can be realised in various ways. Of course, the simplest option is to optimise the overall process in terms of energy requirements alone so that it consumes as little electricity as possible. However, the sustainability of soldering processes also means saving on solder and flux or the use of sustainable and resource-saving consumables. However, an intelligent PCB concept can also support sustainability. Optimised solder joints and/or PCB designs, including heat traps, pre-tinning of pads, optimum pin-hole spacing, etc. reduce the use of energy and consumables.

Furthermore, the hardware used can optimise soldering processes in such a way that resources are saved or their consumption reduced. Energy savings can be achieved, for example, through our specially developed heating algorithm, the double-monitored solder bath temperature or the solder wave height control in the IW1 and 2 mini wave soldering modules. An intelligent cell concept can also contribute to savings. With our modular cell concept, we can now realise the entire machine geometry and design according to sustainable aspects. Our scalable E-cells therefore not only stand for efficient space utilisation and modularity with precision, but also for sustainability. Thanks to a grid dimension of 300 mm in width and length, it is possible to customise the size of each automation cell to suit a wide range of tasks, with the option of height adjustment. In order to optimise our EUTECT cradle-to-cradle principle In order to implement this principle even more sustainably, we have reduced the number of control cabinets and replaced them with centralised and easily replaceable cabinet solutions. As part of this principle, we are taking systems used by customers back from the market and reassigning them to new applications.

The EUTECT E-cell with its modular design makes this possible. In other words, we utilise old systems and modules for new applications. The reasoning behind this decision is simple: every system we deliver contains not only labour time but also material values that can be reused in new projects. This could be the production cell and kinematic solutions, for example, but also soldering modules, soldering nozzles, wire feeders or thermodes. If these parts are still functional, they can also be reused.

However, the consumables used can also have a lasting effect on soldering processes. For example Water-based fluxesas our partner Emil Otto offers. Emil Otto is not only concerned with an ecological end product, but also with environmentally friendly production and simplified transport. The water-based "Green Line" products are completely biodegradable. They are therefore not classified as hazardous goods and do not harm the environment. The "Green Line" products can therefore be transported, handled and stored in the conventional way. The "Green Line" series also includes fluxes for wave soldering. The soldering results are similar to those achieved with alcohol-based fluxes. It is therefore easy to switch to ecological, water-based fluxes.